“Mr. LCC” Gives Back

BY PATRICK PEOTTO, FORMER LCC ASSISTANT HEAD

Two themes have woven their way through the 67-year relationship Vic Badian ’61 (Pre-U ’62) has had with LCC: strong connections and giving back.

It all started when he was enrolled in grade 5 in 1954. Years later in 1967, Geoff Merrill, his former homeroom teacher, hired Vic fresh from university to teach that same grade. Fast forward nine more years and Mr. Merrill, who had become headmaster, asked Vic to combine teaching with serving as administrative assistant in the Senior School, a position he held until 1988. They obviously enjoyed a strong bond.

When Vic retired in 2004 after 37 years of service, and following 15 years as assistant headmaster, he accepted a role as the school’s first alumni ambassador, a post he holds to this day. Then headmaster, Dr. Paul Bennett, commented on Vic’s great knowledge of the school on so many levels. In the position, “Mr. LCC” has travelled to alumni reunions across Canada and North America, spreading good will, taking a multitude of photographs, and maintaining ties with students he says he had the pleasure of teaching, as well as scores of younger alumni. Alumni relations have benefited greatly from his longtime, committed involvement.

“The school itself played such an important role in the person I’ve become,” Vic says. “It’s been my life. I wanted to make sure, even when I left, that I could give back.”

Vic believes LCC has evolved into a much better school over recent years. “The opportunities available to the students are amazing.” He sees volunteering as a golden opportunity. The school is extremely lucky to have him.